1
|
Groen RA, Barbero FL, Fischer SE, van Dijkman PRM, Bax JJ, Tushuizen ME, Jukema JW, Coenraad MJ, de Graaf MA. Coronary artery calcium assessment on non-gated chest CT to optimize pre-operative cardiac screening in liver transplantation. Int J Cardiol 2024; 407:132015. [PMID: 38609053 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2024.132015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guidelines recommend standard pre-operative cardiac screening in all liver transplantation (LT) recipients, despite the relatively low prevalence of obstructive coronary artery disease. Most LT recipients often have non-gated computed tomography (CT) performed of the chest and abdomen. This study evaluated the ability of coronary artery calcification (CAC) assessment on consecutively available scans, to identify a selection of low-risk patients, in whom further cardiac imaging can be safely withheld. METHODS LT recipients with prior non-gated CT chest-abdomen were included. CAC was visually scored on a semi-quantitative ordinal scale. Stress myocardial perfusion, coronary CT angiography (CCTA) and invasive coronary angiography (ICA) were used as golden standard. The sensitivity and specificity of CAC to exclude and predict obstructive CAD were assessed. In addition, peri- and postoperative mortality and cardiac events were analyzed. RESULTS 149 LT recipients (ranged 31-71 years) were included. In 75% of patients, no CAC and mild CAC could rule out obstructive CAD on CCTA and ICA with 100% certainty. The threshold of mild CAC had a sensitivity of 100% for both CCTA and ICA and a specificity of 91% and 68%, respectively. None of the patients with no or mild calcifications experienced peri- and post-operative cardiac events or died of cardiac causes. CONCLUSION Visual evaluation of CAC on prior non-gated CT can accurately and safely exclude obstructive CAD in LT recipients. Incorporation of these already available data can optimize cardiac screening, by safely withholding or correctly allocating dedicated cardiac imaging in LT recipients. Thereby, reducing patients' test burden and save health care expenses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roos A Groen
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Fei Lynn Barbero
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Susan E Fischer
- Department of Gastro-enterology and Hepatology, Transplant Center, Leiden University Medical Centre, the Netherlands
| | - Paul R M van Dijkman
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen J Bax
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten E Tushuizen
- Department of Gastro-enterology and Hepatology, Transplant Center, Leiden University Medical Centre, the Netherlands
| | - J Wouter Jukema
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Minneke J Coenraad
- Department of Gastro-enterology and Hepatology, Transplant Center, Leiden University Medical Centre, the Netherlands
| | - Michiel A de Graaf
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Groen RA, van Dijkman PR, Jukema JW, Bax JJ, Lamb HJ, de Graaf MA. Coronary calcifications as assessed on routine non-gated chest CT; a gatekeeper to tailor downstream additional imaging in patients with stable chest pain. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2024; 52:101418. [PMID: 38737706 PMCID: PMC11087706 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2024.101418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Background and aims Currently applied methods for risk-assessment in coronary artery disease (CAD) often overestimate patients' risk for obstructive CAD. To enhance risk estimation, assessment of coronary artery calcium (CAC) can be applied. In 10 % of patients presenting with stable chest pain a previous non-gated computed tomography (CT) has been performed, suitable for CAC-assessment. This study is the first to investigate the clinical utility of CAC-assessment on non-gated CT for risk-assessment of obstructive CAD in symptomatic patients. Methods For this analysis, all patients referred for coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), in whom a previous non-gated chest CT was performed were included. The extent of CAC was assessed on chest CT and ordinally scored. CAD was assessed on CCTA and obstructive CAD defined as stenosis of ≥70 %. Patients were stratified according to CAC-severity and percentages of patients with obstructive CAD were compared between the CAC groups. Results In total, 170 patients of 32-88 years were included and 35 % were male. The percentage of obstructive CAD between the CAC groups differed significantly (p < 0.01). A calcium score of 0 ruled out obstructive CAD irrespective of sex, pre-test probability, type of complaints and number of risk factors with a 100 % certainty. Furthermore, a mild CAC score ruled out obstructive CAD in patients with low - intermediate PTP or non-anginal complaints with 100 % certainty. Conclusion When available, CAC on non-gated chest CT can accurately rule out obstructive CAD and can therefore function as a radiation-free and cost-free gatekeeper for additional imaging in patients presenting with stable chest pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roos A. Groen
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, The Netherlands
| | | | - J. Wouter Jukema
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen J. Bax
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, The Netherlands
| | - Hildo. J. Lamb
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Radiology, The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kaolawanich Y, Prapan N, Phoopattana S, Boonyasirinant T. The novel H 2VK-65 clinical risk assessment tool predicts high coronary artery calcium score in symptomatic patients referred for coronary computed tomography angiography. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1096036. [PMID: 37465454 PMCID: PMC10351923 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1096036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a powerful imaging modality for the detection and prognostication of individuals with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). High amounts of coronary artery calcium (CAC) significantly obscure the interpretation of CCTA. Clinical risk assessment tools and data specific to predictors of high CAC in symptomatic patients are limited. Methods Consecutive patients who underwent CAC scan and CCTA to diagnose CAD during 2016-2020 were included. A high CAC score was defined as >400 by Agatston method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the predictors of high CAC. The clinical risk score was derived from factors independently associated with high CAC. The derivation cohort was composed of 465 patients; this score was validated in 98 patients. Results The mean age was 63 ± 11 years, 53% were female, and 15.9% had high CAC scores. The independent predictors of high CAC scores were age >65 years (odds ratio [OR] 3.02, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.56-5.85, p = 0.001), chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR 11.09, 95%CI 3.38-36.38, p < 0.001), heart failure (OR 6.52, 95%CI 2.23-19.09, p = 0.001), hypertension (OR 26.44, 95%CI 9.02-77.44, p < 0.001), and vascular diseases, including ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack and peripheral arterial disease (OR 20.96, 95%CI 4.19-104.86, p < 0.001). The H2VK-65 (Hypertension, Heart failure, Vascular diseases, CKD, and Age > 65) score allocates 1 point for age >65, 2 points for CKD or heart failure, and 3 points for hypertension or vascular diseases. Using a threshold of ≥4 points, the sensitivity and specificity to detect high CAC was 81% and 80%, respectively. The area under the curve was 0.88 and 0.85 in the derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. Conclusion The novel H2VK-65 score demonstrated good performance for predicting high CAC scores in symptomatic patients referred for CCTA.
Collapse
|
4
|
Gohmann RF, Sieren MM, Gutberlet M. [Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in cardiac diagnostics-how to choose the right modality : A guide based on the new guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)]. RADIOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 62:902-911. [PMID: 36222875 PMCID: PMC9613581 DOI: 10.1007/s00117-022-01066-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
In the guideline updates of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), noninvasive radiological cross-sectional imaging is taking an increasingly prominent role, while at the same time invasive diagnostic approaches are becoming less important. Especially for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic and acute coronary syndromes, there are fundamental changes in clinical routine. In addition, cross-sectional imaging also offers an alternative to diagnostic algorithms for other cardiac pathologies, especially echocardiography, which is increasingly used in the differential diagnosis of cardiac diseases. The radiologist should be aware of the recommendations of the current guidelines and encourage their establishment in clinical practice. This paper summarizes the indications of cross-sectional cardiac imaging with focus on new recommendations in the ESC guidelines and addresses specific strengths and weaknesses of each modality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin F Gohmann
- Abteilung für Diagnostische und, Interventionelle Radiologie, Herzzentrum Leipzig GmbH, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Deutschland.
| | - Malte M Sieren
- Klinik für Radiologie und Nuklearmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Deutschland
| | - Matthias Gutberlet
- Abteilung für Diagnostische und, Interventionelle Radiologie, Herzzentrum Leipzig GmbH, Strümpellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Al Rifai M, Ahmed AI, Alahdab F, Al-Mallah MH. Clinical utility of coronary artery computed tomography angiography- What we know and What's new? Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2022; 75:12-20. [PMID: 36336026 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2022.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography (CCTA) is increasingly recognized for diagnosing obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) among patients presenting with chest pain. In this review, we summarize the utility of CCTA to determine luminal stenosis and identifying coronary plaques with high-risk features. We review different scoring systems that can quantify total plaque burden including how artificial intelligence can facilitate more detailed plaque assessment. We discuss how CCTA can also be used to detect the hemodynamic significance of CAD lesions (fractional flow reserve CT and CT perfusion) and also local factors outside the vessel wall that may predispose to plaque rupture (fat attenuation index and wall shear stress). We conclude with technological advances in imaging acquisition using photon counting CT and post-image processing techniques especially those that can mitigate blooming artifacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Al Rifai
- Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Fares Alahdab
- Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mouaz H Al-Mallah
- Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xu C, Yi Y, Han Y, Xie H, Lu X, Vembar M, Leiner T, Jin Z, Wang Y. Incremental improvement of diagnostic performance of coronary CT angiography for the assessment of coronary stenosis in the presence of calcium using a dual-layer spectral detector CT: validation by invasive coronary angiography. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2021; 37:2561-2572. [PMID: 34176031 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-021-02205-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
To investigate value of spectral reconstructions for the quantification of coronary stenosis in the presence of calcified or partially calcified plaques using a dual-layer spectral detector CT (SDCT). Seventy-two consecutive patients were retrospectively enrolled. Conventional 120 kVp images, eight virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) (70 to 140 keV), the effective atomic number (Z effective) and iodine no water images were reconstructed. Invasive coronary angiography was used as the reference standard. Parallel and serial testing were used to assess the incremental diagnostic value of Z effective and iodine no water images to the best VMI series. 122 coronary lesions of 72 patients (49 men and 23 women; 63.7 ± 10.2 years) were enrolled in analysis. Reconstruction at 100 keV yielded optimal diagnostic performance, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and diagnostic accuracy to identify stenosis ≥ 50% or ≥ 70% were 84%, 70%, 80%, 76%, 79% and 78%, 98%, 93%, 91%, 92%, respectively. A serial combination (100 keV VMI followed by Z effective images) resulted in an improved specificity (from 70 to 80%) with a moderate loss of sensitivity (81% from 84%) in identifying ≥ 50% stenosis (P = 0.021). For patients with high Agatston score, this combination could further reduce false positive cases and improve diagnostic accuracy. 100 keV VMI provide optimal diagnostic performance for the detection of coronary stenosis in the presence of calcified or partially calcified plaques using a dual-layer SDCT, with further improvements obtained with the combined use of Z effective images.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Xu
- Department of Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College , No.1, Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yan Yi
- Department of Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College , No.1, Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yechen Han
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hongzhi Xie
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaomei Lu
- Clinical Science, Philips Healthcare, Beijing, China
| | - Mani Vembar
- CT Clinical Science, Philips Healthcare, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Tim Leiner
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Zhengyu Jin
- Department of Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College , No.1, Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yining Wang
- Department of Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College , No.1, Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
The accuracy of coronary CT angiography in patients with coronary calcium score above 1000 Agatston Units: Comparison with quantitative coronary angiography. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2021; 15:412-418. [PMID: 33775584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High amounts of coronary artery calcium (CAC) pose challenges in interpretation of coronary CT angiography (CCTA). The accuracy of stenosis assessment by CCTA in patients with very extensive CAC is uncertain. METHODS Retrospective study was performed including patients who underwent clinically directed CCTA with CAC score >1000 and invasive coronary angiography within 90 days. Segmental stenosis on CCTA was graded by visual inspection with two-observer consensus using categories of 0%, 1-24%, 25-49%, 50-69%, 70-99%, 100% stenosis, or uninterpretable. Blinded quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) was performed on all segments with stenosis ≥25% by CCTA. The primary outcome was vessel-based agreement between CCTA and QCA, using significant stenosis defined by diameter stenosis ≥70%. Secondary analyses on a per-patient basis and inclusive of uninterpretable segments were performed. RESULTS 726 segments with stenosis ≥25% in 346 vessels within 119 patients were analyzed. Median coronary calcium score was 1616 (1221-2118). CCTA identification of QCA-based stenosis resulted in a per-vessel sensitivity of 79%, specificity of 75%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 45%, negative predictive value (NPV) of 93%, and accuracy 76% (68 false positive and 15 false negative). Per-patient analysis had sensitivity 94%, specificity 55%, PPV 63%, NPV 92%, and accuracy 72% (30 false-positive and 3 false-negative). Inclusion of uninterpretable segments had variable effect on sensitivity and specificity, depending on whether they are considered as significant or non-significant stenosis. CONCLUSIONS In patients with very extensive CAC (>1000 Agatston units), CCTA retained a negative predictive value > 90% to identify lack of significant stenosis on a per-vessel and per-patient level, but frequently overestimated stenosis.
Collapse
|
8
|
[Computed tomography or cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosis of chronic coronary syndrome?]. Radiologe 2021; 60:1114-1121. [PMID: 33125515 DOI: 10.1007/s00117-020-00765-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Noninvasive imaging modalities are of central importance in the diagnosis of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) in the current guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), while the role of primary invasive coronary angiography in this context is increasingly being questioned. This review provides a summary of the most important diagnostic strategies from the radiology perspective. METHODOLOGICAL ISSUE The diagnostic algorithm is guided by the pretest probability (PTP) for the presence of CCS, which can be estimated based on age, sex, and symptoms. It is important to note that PTP in the current guidelines has decreased significantly compared to older recommendations and this change has an impact on the selection of the most appropriate imaging technique. STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS In patients with low PTP (>5% and <15%) and without prediagnosed coronary artery disease (CAD), CCS can be safely ruled out with inconspicuous computed tomography angiogram (CTA) of the coronary vessels. In patients with increased PTP (>15%) or prediagnosed CAD, noninvasive functional imaging should be primarily used to detect ischemia. PERFORMANCE AND METHODICAL INNOVATIONS The excellent sensitivity (89%), specificity (87%) and high prognostic relevance make stress perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging the functional method of first choice. Technical innovations and the use of artificial intelligence-based methods for image analysis could contribute to further improve its accuracy in the future. PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS Radiologists should be aware of the recommendations of the current guidelines and work towards the establishment of coronary CTA and stress perfusion CMR in clinical routine.
Collapse
|
9
|
Sinogram-Affirmed Iterative Reconstruction Negatively Impacts the Risk Category Based on Agatston Score: A Study Combining Coronary Calcium Score Measurement and Coronary CT Angiography. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:6909130. [PMID: 32733949 PMCID: PMC7376420 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6909130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To assess the impact of sinogram-affirmed iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE) on risk category for coronary artery disease by combining coronary calcium score measurement and coronary CT angiography (CCTA). Materials and Methods Eighty-nine patients (64.0% male) older than 18 years (64.4 ± 10.3 years) underwent coronary artery calcium scanning and prospectively ECG-triggered sequential CCTA examination. All raw data acquired in coronary artery calcium scanning were reconstructed by both filtered back projection (FBP) and SAFIRE algorithms with 5 different levels. Objective image quality and calcium quantification were evaluated and compared between FBP and all SAFIRE levels by the Sphericity Assumed test or Greenhouse-Geisser ε correction coefficient. Coronary artery stenosis was assessed in CCTA. Risk categories of all patients and of the patients with coronary artery stenosis in CCTA were compared between FBP and all SAFIRE levels by the Friedman test. Results The reconstruction protocol from traditional FBP to SAFIRE 5 was associated with a gradual reduction in CT value and image noise (P < 0.001) but associated with a gradual improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio (P < 0.001). There was a gradual reduction in coronary calcification quantification (Agatston score: from 73.5 in FBP to 38.1 in SAFIRE 5, P < 0.001) from traditional FBP to SAFIRE 5. There was a significant difference for the risk category between FBP and all levels of SAFIRE in all patients (from 3.5 in FBP to 3.2 in SAFIRE 5, P < 0.001) and in the patients with coronary artery stenosis in CCTA (from 4.0 in FBP to 3.6 in SAFIRE 5, P < 0.001). Conclusions SAFIRE significantly reduces coronary calcification quantification compared to FBP, resulting in the reduction of risk categories based on the Agatston score. The risk categories of the patients with coronary artery stenosis in CCTA may also decline. Thus, SAFIRE may lead risk categories to underestimate the existence of significant coronary artery stenosis.
Collapse
|
10
|
Weir-McCall JR, Wang R, Halankar J, Hsieh J, Hague CJ, Rosenblatt S, Fan Z, Sellers SL, Murphy DT, Blanke P, Xu L, Leipsic JA. Effect of a calcium deblooming algorithm on accuracy of coronary computed tomography angiography. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2019; 14:131-136. [PMID: 31378687 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2019.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronary artery calcification is a significant contributor to reduced accuracy of coronary computed tomographic angiography (CTA) in the assessment of coronary artery disease severity. The aim of the current study is to assess the impact of a prototype calcium deblooming algorithm on the diagnostic accuracy of CTA. METHODS 40 patients referred for invasive catheter angiography underwent CTA and invasive catheter angiography. The CTA were reconstructed using a standard soft tissue kernel (CTASTAND) and a deblooming algorithm (CTADEBLOOM). CTA studies were read with and without the deblooming algorithm blinded to the invasive coronary angiogram findings. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value and negative predictive value for the detection of stenosis ≥50% or ≥70% were evaluated using quantitative coronary angiography as the reference standard. Image quality was assessed using a 5-point scale, and the presence of image artifact recorded. RESULTS All studies were diagnostic with 548 segments available for evaluation. Image score was 3.64 ± 0.72 with CTADEBLOOM, versus 3.56 ± 0.72 with CTASTAND (p = 0.38). CTADEBLOOM had significantly less calcium blooming artifact than CTASTAND (12.5% vs. 47.5%, p = 0.001). Based on a 50% stenosis threshold for defining significant disease, the Sensitivity/Specificity/PPV/NPV/Accuracy were 65.9/84.9/27.6/96.6/83.4 for CTADEBLOOM and 75.0/81.9/26.6/97.4/81.4 for CTASTAND using a ≥50% threshold. CTADEBLOOM specificity was significantly higher than CTASTAND (84.9% vs. 81.5%, p = 0.03), with no difference between the algorithms in sensitivity (p = 0.22), or accuracy (p = 0.15). These results remained unchanged when a stenosis threshold of ≥70% was used. Interobserver agreement was fair with both techniques (CTADEBLOOM k = 0.38, CTASTAND k = 0.37). CONCLUSION In this proof of concept study, coronary calcification deblooming using a prototype post-processing algorithm is feasible and reduces calcium blooming with an improvement of the specificity of the CTA exam.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jiang Hsieh
- GE Healthcare Technologies, Waukesha, WI, USA
| | | | | | - Zhanming Fan
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | | | | | | | - Lei Xu
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Asafu Adjaye Frimpong G, Owusu IK, Anyitey-Kokor IC, Wiafe-Kwakye CSNS, Aboagye E, Coleman NE, Amankwah P, Abaidoo NK. Age-gender distribution of coronary artery calcium score in a black African population in Ghana. Vasc Health Risk Manag 2018; 14:75-80. [PMID: 29765227 PMCID: PMC5939905 DOI: 10.2147/vhrm.s160669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Distribution of coronary artery calcium (CAC) has been determined in different heterogeneous populations in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). Based on findings showing that geography and culture can influence CAC scoring beyond traditional race groups, we determined the distribution of CAC in a homogenous black African population to provide an initial basis for a larger CAC score study in Africa. Methods and results This is a preliminary study using computed tomography to determine the CAC scores within a black African population who were referred to our center. Other information on patients were recorded through a combination of one-on-one interviews and medical records. A total of 170 patients were involved in our study, including 60.6% males, with an average age of 53.9 ± 9.2 years. The majority (78.8%) had a zero calcium score, with patients within the age group of 55–64 years dominating the non-zero calcium score population. Males were found to have higher calcium levels compared to females, and coronary artery calcification and prevalence steadily rose with the increasing age. However, P-values of 0.328 and <0.001 were observed with distribution of CAC according to gender and age, respectively. Conclusion Findings from this study showed that the distribution of CAC was markedly affected by the age of our study population, which will be more apparent in a larger study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Asafu Adjaye Frimpong
- Department of Radiology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.,Spectra Health Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Isaac Kofi Owusu
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | - Evans Aboagye
- Spectra Health Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Kumasi, Ghana.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Nana Esi Coleman
- Spectra Health Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Pierre Amankwah
- Department of Radiology, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Arakawa K, Ohno M, Horii M, Ishigami T, Kimura K, Tamura K. Impact of flow-mediated dilatation and coronary calcification in providing complementary information on the severity of coronary artery disease. Atherosclerosis 2017; 267:146-152. [PMID: 29132034 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2017] [Revised: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Endothelial dysfunction and coronary artery calcification (CAC) may represent two distinct and separate processes in the development of coronary atherosclerosis. However, the interaction between these factors in determining the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) is uncertain. METHODS Brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) was measured by high-resolution ultrasound before coronary angiography, in 156 patients undergoing coronary CT angiography on suspicion of CAD (M/F 100/56, age 67 ± 11yrs). CAC score was measured with the Agatston method. RESULTS The discriminative performance of FMD and CAC score in predicting the presence of type C lesion, multivessel disease, and high SYNTAX score (>22) was determined by ROC curve analysis. The optimal cutoff values for type C lesion were FMD ≤3.70% (AUC 0.663, p = 0.037) and log(CACscore+1)≥ 6.452 (AUC 0.735, p = 0.006). The combination of these cutoff values identified the lesion with the highest predictive accuracy of 82%. In addition, the optimal cutoff values for multivessel disease were FMD ≤5.40% (AUC 0.689, p = 0.001) and log(CACscore+1)≥ 5.914 (AUC 0.731, p = 0.001), while those for high SYNTAX score were FMD ≤4.10% (AUC 0.664, p = 0.020) and log(CACscore+1) ≥6.693 (AUC 0.817, p = 0.001). The combined measurement of each cutoff value identified multivessel disease and high SYNTAX score with predictive accuracy of 77% and 83%, respectively, which were significantly higher than each parameter alone, with the exception of the predictive accuracy of log(CACscore+1) for high SYNTAX score (p = 0.083). CONCLUSIONS Endothelial dysfunction and CAC may provide complementary information in predicting the extent and severity of coronary artery disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Arakawa
- Department of Cardiology, Fujisawa Shonandai Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Mutsuki Ohno
- Department of Cardiology, Fujisawa Shonandai Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mutsuo Horii
- Department of Cardiology, Fujisawa Shonandai Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Ishigami
- Department of Medical Science and Cardiorenal Medicine, Yokohama City University, School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kazuo Kimura
- Division of Cardiology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kouichi Tamura
- Department of Medical Science and Cardiorenal Medicine, Yokohama City University, School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ex Vivo Assessment of Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaque by Grating-Based Phase-Contrast Computed Tomography: Correlation With Optical Coherence Tomography. Invest Radiol 2017; 52:223-231. [PMID: 28079701 DOI: 10.1097/rli.0000000000000346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of grating-based phase-contrast computed tomography (gb-PCCT) to classify and quantify coronary vessel characteristics in comparison with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and histopathology in an ex vivo setting. MATERIALS AND METHODS After excision from 5 heart specimens, 15 human coronary arteries underwent gb-PCCT examination using an experimental imaging setup consisting of a rotating molybdenum anode x-ray tube, a Talbot-Lau grating interferometer, and a single photon counting detector. Subsequently, all vessels were imaged by OCT and histopathologically processed. Optical coherence tomography, gb-PCCT, and histopathology images were manually matched using anatomical landmarks. Optical coherence tomography and gb-PCCT were reviewed by 2 independent observers blinded to histopathology. Vessel, lumen, and plaque area were measured, and plaque characteristics (lipid rich, calcified, and fibrous) were determined for each section. Measures of diagnostic accuracy were derived, applying histopathology as the standard of reference. RESULTS Of a total of 286 assessed cross sections, 241 corresponding sections were included in the statistical analysis. Quantitative measures derived from gb-PCCT were significantly higher than from OCT (P < 0.001) and were strongly correlated with histopathology (Pearson r ≥0.85 for gb-PCCT and ≥0.61 for OCT, respectively). Results of Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated smaller mean differences between OCT and histopathology than for gb-PCCT and histopathology. Limits of agreement were narrower for gb-PCCT with regard to lumen area, for OCT with regard to plaque area, and were comparable with regard to vessel area. Based on histopathology, 228/241 (94.6%) sections were classified as fibrous, calcified, or lipid rich. The diagnostic accuracy of gb-PCCT was excellent for the detection of all plaque components (sensitivity, ≥0.95; specificity, ≥0.94), whereas the results for OCT showed sensitivities of ≥0.73 and specificities of ≥0.66. CONCLUSIONS In this ex vivo setting, gb-PCCT provides excellent results in the assessment of coronary atherosclerotic plaque characteristics and vessel dimensions in comparison to OCT and histopathology. Thus, the technique may serve as adjunct nondestructive modality for advanced plaque characterization in an experimental setting.
Collapse
|
14
|
Coronary computed tomography angiography using 128-slice dual-source computed tomography in patients with severe calcification. Jpn J Radiol 2017; 35:432-439. [DOI: 10.1007/s11604-017-0650-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
15
|
Relationship between Calcification and Vulnerability of the Carotid Plaques. Ann Vasc Surg 2017; 44:336-342. [PMID: 28479433 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2017.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carotid plaques with a high degree of calcification are usually considered at low embolic risk. However, since a precise evaluation of the extent of calcification is not possible preoperatively through duplex ultrasound and postoperatively by conventional histological examination due to the decalcification process, the relationship between the amount of calcium involvement and plaque vulnerability has not been evaluated yet. This study aims to correlate the extent of carotid plaque calcification with clinical, radiological, and histological complications. METHODS Symptomatic and asymptomatic consecutive patients submitted to carotid endarterectomy between January to December 2014 were included in the study. The amount of carotid calcification was assessed at preoperative computed tomography (CT) through measurement of thickness and circumferential calcium extension and graded from 1 to 8 accordingly (Babiarz classification). Patients were then categorized into 2 groups (low-level group: grade 1-5; high-level group: grade 6-8) and correlated with clinical characteristics and ipsilateral cerebral ischemic lesions at CT. Vulnerability of the plaque was assessed histologically according with American Heart Association (AHA) Classification. Results were overall blindly correlated. RESULTS One hundred five patients (81% male; age: 73 ± 8 years) were enrolled in the study. Forty (38%) were symptomatic and 43 (40%) had an ipsilateral focal lesion at preoperative cerebral CT. Thirty-six (38%) patients had high-level carotid calcification degree at CT scan. At histological analysis, 56 (56%) plaques were considered complicated (AHA type VI). Patients with high-level and low-level carotid calcification had similar epidemiological risk factors, preoperative neurological symptoms, and histological complications (17% vs. 15%, P = 0.76 and 50% vs. 55%, P = 0.62, respectively). The high-level calcification group showed a significantly higher incidence of ipsilateral cerebral lesions at preoperative CT (56% vs. 32%, P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS A high level of calcification of the carotid plaque is not necessarily associated with lower vulnerability: the incidence of preoperative neurological symptoms and histological complications is similar in patients with and without extensive carotid plaque calcification. Cerebral ischemic lesions may be even more frequent in the presence of highly calcified plaques.
Collapse
|
16
|
Harrington J, Mody P, Blankstein R, Nasir K, Blaha MJ, Joshi PH. Coronary Artery Calcium Testing in Patients with Chest Pain: Alive and Kicking. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR RISK REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s12170-017-0542-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
17
|
Abbara S, Blanke P, Maroules CD, Cheezum M, Choi AD, Han BK, Marwan M, Naoum C, Norgaard BL, Rubinshtein R, Schoenhagen P, Villines T, Leipsic J. SCCT guidelines for the performance and acquisition of coronary computed tomographic angiography: A report of the society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Guidelines Committee: Endorsed by the North American Society for Cardiovascular Imaging (NASCI). J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2016; 10:435-449. [PMID: 27780758 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2016.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 627] [Impact Index Per Article: 78.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
In response to recent technological advancements in acquisition techniques as well as a growing body of evidence regarding the optimal performance of coronary computed tomography angiography (coronary CTA), the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Guidelines Committee has produced this update to its previously established 2009 "Guidelines for the Performance of Coronary CTA" (1). The purpose of this document is to provide standards meant to ensure reliable practice methods and quality outcomes based on the best available data in order to improve the diagnostic care of patients. Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Guidelines for the Interpretation is published separately (2). The Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Guidelines Committee ensures compliance with all existing standards for the declaration of conflict of interest by all authors and reviewers for the purpose ofclarity and transparency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suhny Abbara
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.
| | - Philipp Blanke
- Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Michael Cheezum
- Cardiology Service Ft. Belvoir Community Hospital, Ft. Belvoir, VA, United States
| | - Andrew D Choi
- Division of Cardiology and Department of Radiology, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington DC, United States
| | - B Kelly Han
- Minneapolis Heart Institute and Children's Heart Clinic, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Mohamed Marwan
- Cardiology Department, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Chris Naoum
- Concord Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bjarne L Norgaard
- Department of Cardiology B, Aarhus University Hospital-Skejby, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Ronen Rubinshtein
- Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center & Rappaport School of Medicine- Technion- IIT, Haifa, Israel
| | - Paul Schoenhagen
- Cardiovascular Imaging, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Todd Villines
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Jonathon Leipsic
- Department of Radiology and Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|